The tires on your car or truck are the vehicle’s only connection to the road. It’s easy enough to take those tires for granted but picking the right ones can help to keep you safe and get you where you need to go. Unfortunately, the average car owner can easily become confused when trying to sort through the various terms and lingo used in the tire industry.
With this post, we’d like to cut through a little bit of that confusion by clarifying the differences between two common types of tires – winter tires and all-season tires. Both of these options are popular here in Idaho, but which is right for your needs? We’ll take a closer look below.

If you need new tires for your vehicle, or you need any other kind of maintenance and repair work performed, reach out to Taylor & Sons Chevrolet today to get started.

A Quick Education
You don’t need to be an expert in tires to pick out a good set for your vehicle, but it does help to have a basic understanding of why certain tires perform better in some types of conditions than others. There are two main factors to consider here – the tread compound and the tread pattern.
The tread compound is the formula used when creating the rubber that makes up the tire itself. This formula can be tweaked depending on the conditions that the tire is expected to experience. For instance, some tires use a formula that keeps the rubber supple in mild temperatures, but it may stiffen up as it gets colder outside. Alternatively, other tires use rubber that stays soft in cold weather, but it may wear down faster when used during warmer times of the year.
Beyond the tread compound, the tread pattern is the other essential component to consider. The pattern used on a tire’s tread will dictate how well it is able to move water out of the way and how much traction it can obtain in icy or snowy conditions. More aggressive tread patterns will tend to hold the road better in winter weather, but those patterns can make for a noisy driving experience in the cab.

What Are All-Season Tires?
To get started, let’s look at the general category of all-season tires. This is the classification used for most of the tires you will find on the roads during normal conditions. As the name suggests, these are meant to do a little bit of everything. They are comfortable and relatively quiet when weather conditions are good, but also offer enough traction on rainy days and in colder weather. Going back to the discussion above about tread compounds and patterns, all-season tires will have a compound that works nicely in mild temperatures, and a pattern that leads to a quiet ride and comfortable traction in the rain.
Of course, when a tire tries to be good at a little bit of everything, it is not going to be as successful as a model that specializes in one area. So, you shouldn’t expect all-season tires to perform as well in snow as a tire that was purpose-built for that job (more on that in a moment). All-season tires are the right choice for the driver who wants to keep one set of tires on his or her vehicle all year long. This is the convenient option, to be sure, but it could leave you without the necessary traction to keep up with your schedule during the worst of what Idaho’s winters have to offer.

What Are Winter Tires?
Again here, the name says it all. Winter tires are designed specifically to perform at their best when the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall. The rubber compound found here excels in cold weather, and winter tires tend to have very aggressive tread patterns. You can quickly identify a winter tire simply by the deep grooves and sharp edges used to form the tread. This kind of pattern helps your vehicle grip the road when snow or ice is present, although driving on bare pavement with winter tires can be noisy.
You won’t want to drive on winter tires throughout the year, as they are simply not suited for the road conditions you encounter during the warmer months. So, with a set of winter tires, you are looking at using a two-tire system for your vehicle – one set for the winter and one for the summer. This does create a bit of work, as you’ll need to switch them out and store the tires that aren’t in use, but that work will be worth it for many Idaho drivers. With often-challenging winter driving conditions, having a set of winter tires available is a big advantage and can help keep you safe on slippery roads.

What About Studs?
Some winter tires will come with studs installed, or you can have studs added to a set of winter tires that you already own. Studs are small pieces of metal that will add even more gripping ability to your winter tires and help you take on the toughest of snowy and icy conditions. The use of studs is only warranted for those who know they will be driving regularly in tough winter weather and those who don’t have the option to stay home when the roads are covered. For example, utility workers who need to get around in the winter may have studded tires on their work vehicles to help them navigate whatever they might encounter. However, if you can occasionally stay home when the weather is really bad, and you only head out during “normal” winter conditions, going with a standard set of winter tires should be just fine.

With the right tires installed by the pros at Taylor & Sons Chevrolet, you’ll be on solid footing as you go about life in and around the Ponderay area. We hope this post has been helpful, and don’t hesitate to reach out to get help directly from our team. Thank you for stopping by!

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Deciding which car to purchase is not a decision to be made at the spur of the moment. It requires a proper understanding of the features of the varying available options. This will guide you in deciding which is best suited to buying a new car.

You are probably wondering what differentiates an electric car from a gas car. An electric car is an automobile that is powered by the energy in its charged battery. It doesn’t have an internal combustion engine and, as such, does not emit CO2 to the atmosphere. It is environmentally friendly because it is quieter and has no exhaust emissions. A gas-based vehicle, on the other hand, runs when a spark from the spark plug gets in contact with the fuel in its internal combustion engine. It uses gasoline or fuel such as diesel to function. It is worthy to note that the most common form of vehicle is powered by fuel.

Today’s world is more environmentally conscious, and with this going green idea, people are more inclined to do their bit. Hence, electric cars are more favored in purchases. There are three types of electric vehicles. They include:

● Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – powered primarily with electricity include Chevy Bolt, Tesla Model S, Honda Clarity, BMW i3, etc.
● Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – these cars function with both electricity and gas such as Chevy Volt, Toyota Prius Plug-in, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, and so on.
● Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) – these vehicles are mainly gas vehicles, but they have some electronic components.

Although electric and gasoline cars share a common feature on the exterior, their internal workings are completely different. Apart from the obvious difference in the names, here are some key differences between gas and electric vehicles.

1. Source of Power
It is of general knowledge that two major sources power automobiles. Electric cars become functional when connected to a charging source. Meanwhile, gas cars move around by fuel in the tank. Electric cars are environmentally friendly cause they do not emit CO2 emissions like the gas cars. Electric cars have more horsepower than gas cars because they have fewer moving parts. They convert 86% of electrical energy to mechanical energy, making the car move.

2. Components
The components of these vehicles are also worthy of note. The key components of a gasoline car are the battery, electronic control module (ECM), fuel filler, fuel injection system, fuel line, fuel pump, fuel tank (gasoline), internal combustion engine (spark-ignited), and transmission. The main components of an electric vehicle are onboard chargers, traction batteries, traction motors, inverters, batteries DC/DC Converters, and controllers.

3. Moving Parts
Another significant difference between electric and gas vehicles is the number of moving parts. Although these vehicles look similar, an electric car only has one moving part while a gas car has many moving parts. As a result, electric cars require fewer visits to a car service center for maintenance than gasoline-powered vehicles. Since the maintenance is less for electric cars, the financial obligations are also lesser in comparison.

If you are looking to buy a new car or used car from a local car dealership like Taylor & Sons Chevrolet, it would be prudent to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Advantages of Gas Cars
1. A gas car is more efficient when one frequently takes long journeys. When its fuel tank is filled, it can run up to 300 miles before needing another refill, unlike the electric cars, which can only run for 100-200 miles when fully charged before requiring another charge. This is quite beneficial because the driver would not need to keep making stops along the roadside for another charge. In a situation where a driver runs out of charge in an environment without a power supply, they would be stranded till a car service company can come to tow the vehicle.
2. Refilling a gas car is markedly faster than charging an electric car. When you drive to a gas station, you know you will be done in a couple of minutes. However, for an electric vehicle, it takes hours to achieve full charge capacity, which can cause delays in reaching a destination.
3. Gas cars are more commonly used than electric cars. When a car breaks down on the road due to wear and tear or improper vehicle maintenance, it is very easy to find an automobile repair shop for repairs. The odds of easily finding a service center for an electric car are higher.
4. Gas vehicles are easy to use and easier to fuel.
5. The gas vehicles have hundreds of moving parts working together to ensure a faster speed range.

Advantages of Electric Cars
1. It is widely known that electric cars are Eco friendly because they don’t emit CO2 emulsion like gas cars. Considering the state of the atmosphere, who wouldn’t want a car that is friendlier or good for the environment?
2. Electric cars are steadier and smoother when driving. Since they run on electricity, it allows the components to work perfectly without creating the inconvenience of the rumbling sounds. Also, their acceleration rate is off the charts.
3. Another advantage of owning an electric car is cheaper maintenance. The maintenance of an electric car is affordable primarily because it has just one moving part, which is the motor.

Disadvantages of Gas Cars
1. Gas cars release CO2 emissions, which are toxic to the environment. These emissions are a major drawback since it increases the rate of environmental pollution, which in turn causes global warming
2. The gas cars do not require charging to run, as long as adequate fuel or gas is available. This is also beneficial as it protects against unnecessary breakdowns on the road.

Disadvantages of Electric Cars
1. Electric cars are more expensive to buy. Compared with gas-powered vehicles, the purchase price is exorbitant, particularly when a new car.
2. There are not many fast-charging stations, making it difficult for electric cars to be charged.
3. A particular range or a limited range that an electric car can move within before going off. This would cause an avoidable delay if one were driving a gas vehicle.

The purpose for which a car should be purchased should not be restricted to only aesthetics but to functionality and durability. In conclusion, on both sides of your choice of a vehicle, there are indisputable advantages and disadvantages. With this information, you can purchase a car or a truck best suited to you. Call Taylor & Sons Chevrolet to find out more – we are the experts and can help you make the right decision for your next vehicle.

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Maintenance keeps even the smallest component of your car running. Continuous maintenance will ensure your vehicle lasts beyond the period you expected it to. This is because regular vehicle maintenance keeps the car in great condition and preserves it from vehicle damages. Aside from the above, routine vehicle maintenance ensures that you drive efficiently and avoid the financial strain of costly repairs. As a driver, you need to spend time servicing and maintaining your car, so it doesn’t break down unexpectedly and cause you to spend time repairing it. Typically, maintenance can be defined as steps taken to ensure that the vehicle is kept in perfect working condition.

There are various types of maintenance. They include:
● Preventative maintenance: This is aimed at spotting and solving issues beforehand. This maintenance is mostly done in regular inspection at a service center. As soon as the inspection is done on the vehicle, any signs of breakdown will be discovered, and all the damaged parts from the vehicle will be changed. The main purpose of preventive maintenance is to prevent break down. For example, tackling any issue that could pop up before it escalates and goes into crisis mode.
● Condition-based maintenance: This type of maintenance is considered preventive maintenance, but it entails a more complex observation. Technicians at the dealership or service center will observe the vehicle and identify things that could affect its functioning.
● Predictive maintenance: This is a type of condition-based maintenance where the sensor device is observing systems. It’s an intensive type of maintenance.
● Predetermined maintenance: This type of maintenance was expected by the manufacturer as such specific guidelines have already been given usually in the car manual. The guidelines or suggestions are given by some test which is done on the vehicle.

The reality is buying a car is not an inexpensive venture. Cars are one of the key investment options available, and since you would want to one day sell the car at a reasonable price, regular maintenance is advised.

The importance of routine vehicle maintenance follows:

1. Saves you from unwanted vehicle problems: When close attention is given to a vehicle, it will reduce the chances of the car developing any faults in the engine and other components. By ensuring regular maintenance on your car, you can avoid issues that will cause your car from having a breakdown and discover faulty components. For someone that drives regularly, being stuck without a car for a day would show how difficult transportation can be.

2. Routine maintenance increases safety on the road: One reason for having your vehicle is to ensure reasonable safety. However, an improperly maintained car is a hazard to you and others on the road. For instance, an accident could occur due to a faulty plug, affecting other drivers on the road. Also, you can avoid a breakdown in a deserted or unsafe area. Hence, regular checking of your car would ensure you are stranded in the middle of nowhere.

3. Saves you money from car crisis: If you ensure regular maintenance of your car, it can save you from spending a lot of money in an avoidable car crisis. It would be prudent to spend less now maintenance than to spend a ton of it shortly.

4. Brake failure: Car brakes hold a great level of importance in every car. It is still very important to check the brakes, pad, and efficiency. For older models, special attention is particularly important because a brake failure would tremendously affect the safety of all road users, including pedestrians.

5. Regular maintenance decreases the depreciation of the vehicle’s value: Whether new or used, every vehicle depreciates over time. From the day of production, depreciation begins to set in. However, the speed of depreciation is dependent on the level of maintenance.

6. Keeps the car in great condition: Maintenance keeps your car in great working condition and ensures that you would be proud of owning your car because on its condition.

7. Smooth performance: For a poorly maintained vehicle, the level of performance will gradually begin to reduce faster than the set depreciation rate. Generally, the efficiency and smooth performance of a car begin to deteriorate due to wear and tear and other reasons. Still, regular maintenance keeps the vehicle running and smooth for a longer period.

8. Tire inspection: The tire is a major part of the car, and a tire inspection is meant to be done consistently. A tire change is meant to be done frequently to ensure that the tire is at the right pressure rate and reduce the risk of driving around a punctured tire.

9. Electrical problems (like lights): The car lights such as the brake and parking lights must all be kept in good working conditions. Regular maintenance would let a car owner know when to change the bulbs.

The above reasons reflect the importance of having regular car maintenance. However, there are also risks associated with poor or no vehicle maintenance.

1. Poor performance of the vehicle: When a car owner skips the maintenance routine needed for the proper performance of the car, its performance begins to slack, and its efficiency level drastically reduces. At this point, car owners begin to get tired of their vehicles and plan to sell. Sadly, they will not get a good price for it because of wear and tear.

2. Protection risks: safety can be compromised for the passenger, driver, and other drivers on the road. Without constant maintenance of one’s vehicle, one is unaware of the possible faultiness in the car, such as tire issues, oil leaks, and so on, making the car unstable.

In conclusion, a car is a great investment and necessary for daily transportation. Whether it is a used or new car, you must regularly maintain it. At Taylor & Sons Chevrolet in Ponderay, Idaho, we are your local dealership that you can rely on for great service and reasonable. To keep up on your car’s routine maintenance, feel free to call us or book an appointment on our website today!

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Many American cars are famous in the market; however, there is only one car recognized as an American sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette. From the foregoing, the Corvette is set up to compete with its European counterparts as a sport vehicle comfortably. Generally, it is important to establish that a car engine can either be in the front, middle, or rear part of the vehicle. These differences in the configuration are key to the performance of the vehicle.

● Front Engine Cars
Front engine cars are the most widely produced and used by people. Like its name says, its engine is in front of the car. Since most cars have front-wheel drive, it makes sense that the engine is also at the front. Front engines ensure adequate weight distribution balancing of the car since the weight is evenly distributed amongst the wheels. This makes the car more stable and reduces the chance of over-steering; this makes front-engine cars more consumer-friendly than any other car.
● Rear Engine Cars
Rear engine cars are the least common in the market. Most people buy cars for daily convenience and transport, and since rear engine cars are mainly used for racing, it is not usually found around. This configuration is higher than others, as it provides more power and traction to the back wheels, making them quick to accelerate. Rear engine cars are, however, prone to oversteering and can be very unstable where there is improper suspension and chassis tuning.
● Mid-Engine Cars
These cars have their engines in the mid-rear position of the car. Quite unusual, and not easily found in the market, because its engine is fixed in the place you would usually find a back seat. A mid-engine car balances the front and rear wheels of the vehicle perfectly. As such, the car can maintain equal traction and power in the wheels, achieving stability of the vehicle. The primary disadvantage for a driver is when a driver loses control of a mid-engine vehicle, it might be impossible for them to stop the car’s spinning because of its low center of gravity in the car. Examples of mid-engine cars include Lamborghini, Ferrari, Audi R8, etc.

The hallmark of every great producer is producing a product that can withstand competition on every scale. This drive led to the production of the mid-engine Corvette by Chevrolet. The mid-engine Corvette is the brainchild of the Chevrolet automobile company that started 60 years ago with the prototype 1959 CERV I. After Zora Arkus-Duntov presented this original idea, there have been many other prototypes of a mid-engine vehicle. Still, the first one was produced six decades later, and the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was launched on July 18, 2019.

Historically, Chevrolet vehicles were front-engine sports cars, this feature, however, limited the vehicles from being competitive on an international level. By moving the engine to the middle, the car reached a higher potential in speed and flexibility. Key features of this mid-engine corvette include better visibility, quick grips, and monitoring back weight proportion, which allows more power to be directed to the rear wheels when essential. It has an aerodynamic design that enhances efficiency and execution and proper engine cooling.

Key Features of the 2020 Chevy C8 Corvette:
The C8 Corvette was created after several decades of planning. As such, it has some remarkable and noteworthy features. Here is a few of them.

It has 495 horsepower –
The C8 Corvette surpassed the previous models with 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, respectively. This is 35 more than the current Corvette Stingray. Also, its performance exhaust output has increased, ranging from 495 hp and 470 lb.-ft.

It has a manual transmission –
This feature was the least expected by car enthusiasts; for the first time, the Corvette is composed of an eight-speed, dual-clutch transmission. In layman’s terms, it is not an automatic car.

It accelerates from 0km to 60km in less than 3 seconds –
The motor and transmission in the entry-level Corvette that has the Z51 package will ride to 60 miles per hour in less than 3 seconds. This shows a significant improvement from the previous model.

The driver sits 16.5 inches further forward –
The position of the engine helps a driver to handle the steering better. This also moves the driver forward up to 16.5 inches. According to Chevrolet, this constructs a race car view from the front windscreen, making it more appealing to drivers.

The vehicle’s interior mirrors that of a jet fighter –
The C8 Corvette interior was inspired by contemporary jet fighters, specifically the F-22 and F-35.

It has an open roof –
As expected from car enthusiasts, the C8 Corvette is a Targa. The roof comes off and is stored in the trunk as other targas like the Porsche Targa.

Car boot is roomy enough for two golf bags –
One would expect the opposite for a mid-rear end vehicle, but the C8 Corvette has a roomy boot. There is also a front trunk or frunk sufficient to fit in a carry-on and a laptop bag.

GPS-enabled suspension lift –
The schnoz part of the vehicle is lower than other current Corvette, but it can still find the bottom on vertical driveways and the likes. This is because the 2020 Corvette can lift its schnoz by 40 millimeters and store over 1,000 locations where it knows it should automatically lift.

The right-hand-drive will be available –
Unlike other Chevrolet cars, the Corvette will be usable with the steering wheel on the right side for the United Kingdom and Asian markets.

Priced below $60,000 –
Official pricing was not specifically released – however, in a statement by Mark Reuss, the president of General Motors, he stated that the vehicle would cost below $60,000. This price is another point of appeal.

In conclusion, because of how significant the 2020 Chevy C8 Corvette is, you can only purchase from Chevrolet dealerships like Taylor & Sons Chevrolet. We are a local dealership covering the whole Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene area that deals in both used and new trucks and cars. Come see us today and find out more about the changes and upgrades in the newest Chevrolet Corvette.

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Everything new subsequently becomes old, from the preceding, that old car in the garage was once new. When your old car breaks down finally at the side of the road, you are faced with the reality of choosing whether to get a new car or a pre-owned wheel. On the surface, a car fresh off the lot would be more appealing, but you will also probably get recommendations from car enthusiasts that buying a used one is the better choice in the long haul. This post will guide you through the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

KEY FEATURES ABOUT NEW AND USED CARS
● New cars are built with all the most recent safety features. They are generally more durable, and you will feel safer because the car is at its strongest point. However, they do come with a higher cost and high insurance fees. 
● Used cars are favored because they are cheaper. As a result, their insurance fees are much less.
● In your decision-making process, it is wise to consider not just the newness or how old the car is but the subsequent expenditures such as gas, insurance, repairs, and maintenance.

Advantages of Acquiring a New Car
1. It is appealing
From the new car smell to the polished shiny paint, the leather interior, the incessant admiration by onlookers, and the just off the curb feels, a new car screams glamor and appeal. A new car is cosmetic, and it announces the status of its driver. Great looks aside, a new car also has other advantages.
2. Trustworthiness and manufacturer’s warranty
New cars come with warranty protection and trustworthiness that the vehicle is at its optimal stage and the assurance that if anything does go wrong, its manufacturer would fix it or replace it for a better working model. When you buy a car new, you are not bothered with its history, such as how it was used before it came into your possession.
3. Roadside Assistance
Some new cars come with the advantage of free roadside assistance. This feature will save a car owner from the cost of paying towing fees if the newly purchased car breaks down.
4. All Recent Features are Included in New Cars
New cars are made to satisfy the latest fuel efficiency standards and up-to-date safety features. Aside from this, new cars have features like luxury cushioned seat warmers, remote starts, Bluetooth connectivity, front and back parking cameras, assisted driving, and so on.
5. Financing Options and Packages
Many manufacturers and new car dealerships give their patrons financing programs with low or no interest when they have good credit. This will make financing the purchase of a new car easier and less costly than a used one.

Disadvantages of Acquiring a New Car
On the flip side, certain things make buying a new car less appealing.
1. New Cars are Costly
Acquiring a new car is a huge financial obligation. If you are planning on financing the purchase with an auto loan, you will end up borrowing and spending more than you would for a used car. Aside from this, the interest payable will be exhibited over time. End up paying more interest over time.
2. Depreciation Factor
It is a trite principle in the automobile business that new cars depreciate faster than used vehicles. A car will gradually lose the highest value point in the first few years of purchasing. A huge chunk of appreciation happens immediately after purchase, the moment it is driven off the lot. It has been estimated that about 20% of the car’s value goes when driven off the lot. As soon as you’re off the lot, the car’s worth will be wholesale, no longer retail price. Hence, it is at that amount that the car dealership would offer to pay if you decide to resell it back to them.
3. High Insurance Fees
New cars have higher auto insurance costs than pre-owned vehicles because their alternate prices are higher.
As earlier stated, a car will not stay new forever. In a week, a month, or a year, depending on maintenance, the car will look just like every regular car, but the monthly payments might still tie you down for a longer time. At that point, you might even wish you had gotten a used car. Here are the advantages of choosing a used car.

Advantages of Purchasing a Used Car
Marketers have coined the word pre-owned cars to replace the phrase “used car,” all to make them more appealing. However, these used vehicles sell themselves due to the following advantages.
1. Lower prices.
Used cars are less expensive than new ones because, at the point of their sale, much of their depreciation has already happened. The original owner has already paid that price. When you purchase a used car, you can get more cars at a new car rate.
2. Warranties Come with Certified Used Cars.
Used vehicles that are certified have their warranty protection still available. The warranties would normally cover the most expensive components of the car’s drivetrain for 200,000 miles. If you purchased from a used car dealership, then you’re likely to get a warranty that extends the manufacturer’s original warranty. Though Certified pre-owned cars are more pricey than other used cars, they are also well inspected and improved.
3. Used Cars Have Cheaper Insurance
Most new car dealerships may compel you to have full insurance coverage for the new vehicle you’re financing. However, for a used vehicle, the insurance fees are subsidized and easier to cover, especially if you’re paying cash for the used car.

Disadvantages of Acquiring a Used Car
Most people are skeptical about purchasing new cars because they cannot adequately be informed about how it was maintained by their previous owner or why it was sold here. There is always the danger of buying what somebody was avoiding. Here are a couple of disadvantages.
1. Longer mileage
Used cars more often than not have higher mileage, and this is known to reduce their lifespan. If you buy a higher-mileage car, you must prepare to replace it shortly after use. Sadly, this will add to the financial obligation of the user. Most people would consider this extra expense of changing vehicles and purchasing a new car.
2. Limited selection.
It is often difficult to find a used vehicle that meets up with the precise model and features that you want.
3. Limited consumer protections.
Purchasing a used car strips you of certain protection you would ordinarily have with new cars. To protect the consumers, more states are creating laws that cater to protecting buyers of used vehicles, such as the requirement that a buyer’s guide is displayed on the side window of every used car, as well as warranties and so on.

How to Decide Whether to Buy a New or Used Car?
In contemplating buying a new or pre-used vehicle, you have to weigh your options, considering the purchase price and the subsequent maintenance costs.
It is important to note that deciding to buy a new or used vehicle isn’t completely a financial decision; check other variables before making your decision.

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One of the key roles played by tires is enabling mobility. So even though they are just four black circles hanging on your car, they are legs that make your vehicle move. They play an important role in ensuring both your safety and the safety of other road users. Therefore, your tires are of utmost priority for the vehicle’s maintenance. As a car owner, you need to ensure that you’re selecting suitable sturdy tires as well as adequately maintaining them.

Signs That Tell You Your Tires are Faulty
As a car owner, one of your fundamental duties is ensuring that your tires are in good working condition. You can achieve this by proper and regular inspection of your automobile. Things to watch out for include punctures or any signs of deflation, damage to the tire threads, or damaged valve caps in your tires. Where any of these signs exist, you must take your vehicle to a service center at the earliest time to get the tires replaced.

Another way of detecting whether your tires are faulty is by paying attention to the steering feel while driving. Where you detect heaviness in directing the car to a direction or unstable swerving to one direction, or you feel like the ride is not as smooth, the next point of call will be an experienced mechanic or a car dealership. The experienced professionals will correctly detect the cause of the malfunction and rightly recommend what needs to be done.

Why should you change your car’s tires regularly?
Every vehicle tire is designed with lines; these lines are referred to as treads. The tread determines your tire’s grip, particularly on a wet road. The condition of your tires’ tread will allow you to be able to accelerate smoothly, stop, and take swerves effortlessly, even on a road that is not particularly suitable for driving.

Unavoidably wear and tear comes with regular vehicle use; the tread will begin to lose its grip and begin to wear out. This will reduce the effectiveness of your brake and possibly become a safety hazard for both the car owner and other road users. This is another reason to service your car regularly. This way, a mechanic can check the grip worthiness of your tires and inform you when they need to be changed. It would help if you did not wait till you are involved in an accident to check the conditions of your tires.

When the following occurs, then you need to change your tires.

1. When You Get a Punctured Tire
This doesn’t often happen with modern tires, created to be durable and robust. However, punctures can still occur when you drive over sharp items like nails or long pins. Not all punctures will render a tire unusable, and you will require the help of a tire specialist to conclude whether it can be repaired or be replaced.

As part of your safety precautions as a car owner, you should check the inflation pressure of both the fixed tires and spare tires. It is important to note that it is not advisable to drive on a deflated tire.

2. Your tires are Aging
Generally, tires have no specific lifespan; the length of usage is usually dependent on other factors. Various factors affect the lifespan of a tire, including climate, maintenance, place of storage, how it is being used, driving speed, driving style, and damage.

The one thing most car owners fail to realize is that tires can get old. For owners that stick to using new tires, they have fewer concerns about changing their tires. Car owners that buy second-hand tires then need to be careful of the factors stated above.

Once your tires have been used for five years, it will be prudent to be inspected by a professional to guarantee that they are still safe, roadworthy and if the tread depth is within the acceptable level.

If you have maintained the same tires for 10years from the manufacture date, they will almost certainly require replacing even if they seem to be in functional condition and have been worn down to the tread wear needles.

Excessive ageing of tires can cause loss of grip and corrosion of the reinforcing layout. As a result, it is recommended that owners should regularly check the tires for signs of ageing or cracking.

3. In the Presence of Abnormal Wears
Where an unusual and uneven tear or wear is detected at the edges or center of the tire, it indicates a mechanical issue such as bad wheel alignment, suspension, or transmission. This could also be a result of driving under the wrong tire pressure. Whenever you notice such abnormal wear, you should reach out to your tire specialist.

To prevent uneven wear, keep your wheels properly aligned and balanced on every visit to the mechanic. This will extend the tread life of the tires and ensure smoother rides. Another way to keep your tire wear more even is to fit new tires to the rear axle and move the older tires to the front axle positions. This provides the best grip at the rear of the car where it’s needed, and you can get more from your tires as they are worn more evenly; this reduces the chance of constant replacement.

4. Damage Due to Impact with Solid Objects
Your vehicle tires can be greatly damaged when it suffers from constant impact with tough objects. Impacts caused by contact with objects like a curb, potholes, or any sharp objects will deteriorate the tires. It could cause slight perforations or deformation, which would grow wider with more impact. That point will become a sensitive point. Hence, any obvious perforation should be examined fully by a tire professional so it can be patched or replaced on their recommendation.

Using damaged tires or perforated tires is never encouraged unless they have been carefully assessed internally and externally by a professional. This Inspection must be done by a professional, not by you, because these internal damages are not visible while the tire is hoisted.

5. Change in Weather
If you use weather-specific turns the moment the weather is changing, then you will need to change your tires for more suitable ones in cold countries like the UK that face all weather conditions through the course of a year. You might need to switch between summer tires and winter tires.
Winter tires are precisely designed to operate better in colder and wetter conditions. They are designed to provide a better grip for snow and ice.

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Residents and visitors alike can’t help but appreciate the beauty and diverse topography of Northern Idaho. Cities and towns, lakes, mountains, cattle farms, campgrounds, and more dot the landscape when driving throughout this beautiful part of the country.

Finding the perfect vehicle for Northern Idaho is not as difficult as it seems, considering the vast inventory at Taylor & Sons Chevrolet in Ponderay. Whether it be antiquing in Coeur d’Alene, taking a road trip to Sandpoint, or going hiking on one of the many mountain trails, there is a Chevrolet that is built for your lifestyle and will provide you the versatility and comfort you’re looking for.

Your personal and family lifestyle are the significant determinants in what is the perfect vehicle for you. If you spend the majority of your time in town, a sporty Camaro or Corvette may be just the ticket for you to enjoy some extra horsepower under the hood to go along with their classic lines.

For those living in town that would like the comfort of a sturdy passenger vehicle, the Malibu and Impala are two that have stood the test of time. They offer a touch of class combined with options that provide the creature-comforts you may be looking for, such as premium sound systems and 4-cylinder engines that are great on gas mileage. They also deliver get-up-and-go when you need it.

If you frequently take road trips, the Bolt, Trax, and Equinox will get you to your destination comfortably and economically. They provide traction and control in harsh weather conditions, seat five comfortably, and will give you ample acceleration as needed.

Many people find the Chevrolet Silverado to be the perfect vehicle for Northern Idaho. The Silverado is perhaps the best-known truck in America and has been a mainstay of the Chevrolet product line for many years. It is known for its durability and long lifespan.

One of the significant tipping points why so many people prefer the Silverado is its ability to meet the lifestyle requirements of so many different types of people. For those that love to camp, the Silverado can hold all of the gear you could need for a week of hiking and fly-fishing as you camp out under the stars. When you’re in town and headed out for fine dining, that same Silverado offers a classy look that will have you arriving in style.

The Tahoe is an excellent choice for those that love outdoor life. If you love hauling your ATV out into the wilderness for some off-roading, its 8,600-pound towing capability will surely meet your needs without straining the 6.2L V-8 engine. Inside, you’ll find comfort and quiet as you travel and enjoy the scenery of Northern Idaho.

No matter what you’re looking for as you enjoy this beautiful part of the state, Taylor & Sons Chevrolet has the perfect vehicle for you. Come and take a test drive, and we’ll help you find the car, truck, or SUV that will give you years of Chevy reliability. Contact us today, and we’ll get you on the road in your perfect vehicle for Northern Idaho.

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The chances are you’ve seen two vehicles tethered together by a rope, one pulling the other, and wondered what they were doing? Or you’ve seen a truck hooked to a pleasure craft and looked on with a tinge of jealousy? What you’ve seen are unconventional and conventional towing methods. Let’s examine them by answering some of the most common questions concerning them.

Question: What is conventional towing?

Answer: Conventional towing utilizes the tow ball of the vehicle. Loads being pulled need to remain in compliance with the tow vehicle’s weight limits to avoid damaging the vehicle’s body and engine because of excessive strain.

Most pull-behind towing falls under this category, including any towing that utilizes a pintle hook, tow ball, or similar configuration involving a shank and receiver hitch.

Question: What is unconventional towing?

Answer: Unconventional towing tethers the load to the vehicle’s chassis or body, commonly with a rope, cord, or cable.

Question: Is unconventional towing dangerous?

Answer: Yes, it can be if not done correctly. As mentioned before, one of the most significant dangers is towing an excessively heavy load, such as a small automobile pulling a half-ton truck.

The tow vehicle must be of ample size and have sufficient towing capacity to withstand damage. This information can be obtained online or from the automobile dealership (Ask your Taylor & Sons Chevrolet sales representative for the towing capacity of our vehicles).

Another danger is related to the driver of both vehicles. Abrupt stopping by the tow vehicle can result in not only damage to both vehicles because of the collision, but also to any drivers involved in either vehicle. It is advised that any unconventional towing be done on secondary roads, not Interstate highways.

Question: What is the most common type of tow hitch?

Answer: Bumper pull, also known as drag or tagalong trailer, is the most common type of tow hitch. This method is where the trailer’s tongue fits over a ball hitch that juts out from the vehicle’s frame at the rear.

Question: Are weight-distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups and larger classified as conventional or unconventional towing?

Answer: Weight distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups are classified as conventional towing.

As can be seen, there is a vast difference between the two types of towing. At Taylor & Sons Chevrolet, we’ll be happy to advise you on your vehicles towing capacity and help you get it ready for towing. Contact us today for any type of assistance you need.

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It’s not unusual to have sweaty palms and rapid breathing when contemplating buying your first car. Sure, you’ve had hand-me-down vehicles before, or maybe someone bought you a pre-owned vehicle as a high school graduation gift. But finding your perfect first car is an experience like no other.

The good news is that with some preparation beforehand, your first foray into car-buying can end happily with you finding the perfect car for you. Here are eight tips that can make your experience productive and pleasurable.

1.) Know what you’re looking for.

The first mistake many car buyers make is showing up at the dealership not knowing what their end goal is. You should be asking yourself questions about what the car is like that you’d love to be driving out in. Some of them are:

• What color do I want?

• Manual or automatic?

• Two-door or four-door?

• Front-wheel drive?

• What options do I want?

• What’s the warranty?

2.) Know your budget and stay within it.

You’re going to be tempted to buy a vehicle that costs more than you can afford. One of those temptations is purchasing an upgraded version of the standard model you’re interested in. All those extra bells and whistles can be very tempting. But, by having a pre-set budget amount on what you can realistically afford to spend and sticking with it, you won’t have buyer’s remorse when you write your first check for your new car. Spend only what you can afford; you won’t regret it.

3.) Know your credit score.

If you’re going to be applying for a loan, the interest rate you’ll be paying will be determined by your credit score. Knowing your score in advance allows you to strengthen it, which can save you thousands of dollars over the life of a car loan. Also, knowing your credit score will enable you to negotiate a better rate with the lender.

4.) Do your research.

There is an abundant amount of information available online about the makes and models of cars you have an interest in. Do a Google search on them, and you’ll find many helpful articles, including reviews in car-buying publications and testimonials from people that are owners of the vehicles you have an interest in.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask family and friends what they know about these cars. Not only will they tell you what they know, but they’ll also probably make recommendations for other types of vehicles that they like. The more information you have, the better. You don’t have to take everyone’s advice, but it’s good to hear it.

5.) Locate a reputable and convenient dealership.

A reputable dealership will take the time to find out precisely the type of vehicle you’re looking for and will find it for you. They’re going to find the perfect car for you, one that they are confident will be reliable and meet your needs.

A conveniently located dealership is essential, as well. Since they know the type of vehicle you’ve purchased, they’re the best choice you can make when it comes to repairs or regular maintenance. They’ll have trained technicians that are familiar with vehicles just like yours, which will give you peace of mind knowing that there is someone qualified to take care of your car after you buy it.

6.) Take a test drive.

Now that you’ve found a car you have a keen interest in, it’s time to get behind the wheel and take it for a test drive. As you drive it, you’ll naturally be thinking about how it looks on the outside, but you also need to be asking yourself practical questions about the car since you’ll be spending so much time behind the wheel. How does it handle? How does it brake? Does it have the acceleration you need? Consider these aspects as you drive the car.

7.) Negotiate for your best price.

Knowing in advance what vehicles you’re interested in are selling for in your area is valuable information as you sit with a salesperson or finance manager and are talking about price. The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price can give you an accurate idea of what other people have paid for a similar vehicle. The dealership has to make a fair profit to stay in business, but you also want to pay a reasonable price. Having pricing information before you test drive a car is an excellent way to make sure you don’t overpay for the vehicle you want.

8.) Secure financing.

It’s always a best practice to know in advance the loan amount you’ll qualify for. The last thing you want is to go through the entire car buying process only to find out that you can’t get the loan amount you need because of your credit score or income/debt level.

Check with your bank or credit union before going to the dealership. See what their interest rates are and what the approximate monthly payment amount is for the type of car you’re interested in. You may very well want to finance your car through the dealership if they have favorable rates.

Taylor & Sons Chevrolet is the type of dealership you want to purchase your perfect first car from. We stand behind every vehicle we sell because we only sell quality cars and trucks. Our professional and courteous sales team members will assist you in finding your perfect first car without any high-pressure sales tactics. We want this to be a pleasant experience for you, and the first of many vehicles you’ll purchase from us.

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The chances are you’ve seen two vehicles tethered together by a rope, one pulling the other, and wondered what they were doing? Or you’ve seen a truck hooked to a pleasure craft and looked on with a tinge of jealousy? What you’ve seen are unconventional and conventional towing methods. Let’s examine them by answering some of the most common questions concerning them.

Question: What is conventional towing?

Answer: Conventional towing utilizes the tow ball of the vehicle. Loads being pulled need to remain in compliance with the tow vehicle’s weight limits to avoid damaging the vehicle’s body and engine because of excessive strain.

Most pull-behind towing falls under this category, including any towing that utilizes a pintle hook, tow ball, or similar configuration involving a shank and receiver hitch.

Question: What is unconventional towing?

Answer: Unconventional towing tethers the load to the vehicle’s chassis or body, commonly with a rope, cord, or cable.

Question: Is unconventional towing dangerous?

Answer: Yes, it can be if not done correctly. As mentioned before, one of the most significant dangers is towing an excessively heavy load, such as a small automobile pulling a half-ton truck.

The tow vehicle must be of ample size and have sufficient towing capacity to withstand damage. This information can be obtained online or from the automobile dealership (Ask your Taylor & Sons Chevrolet sales representative for the towing capacity of our vehicles).

Another danger is related to the driver of both vehicles. Abrupt stopping by the tow vehicle can result in not only damage to both vehicles because of the collision, but also to any drivers involved in either vehicle. It is advised that any unconventional towing be done on secondary roads, not Interstate highways.

Question: What is the most common type of tow hitch?

Answer: Bumper pull, also known as drag or tagalong trailer, is the most common type of tow hitch. This method is where the trailer’s tongue fits over a ball hitch that juts out from the vehicle’s frame at the rear.

Question: Are weight-distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups and larger classified as conventional or unconventional towing?

Answer: Weight distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups are classified as conventional towing.

As can be seen, there is a vast difference between the two types of towing. At Taylor & Sons Chevrolet, we’ll be happy to advise you on your vehicles towing capacity and help you get it ready for towing. Contact us today for any type of assistance you need.

Conventional and Unconventional Towing: FAQ’s

The chances are you’ve seen two vehicles tethered together by a rope, one pulling the other, and wondered what they were doing? Or you’ve seen a truck hooked to a pleasure craft and looked on with a tinge of jealousy? What you’ve seen are unconventional and conventional towing methods. Let’s examine them by answering some of the most common questions concerning them.

Question: What is conventional towing?

Answer: Conventional towing utilizes the tow ball of the vehicle. Loads being pulled need to remain in compliance with the tow vehicle’s weight limits to avoid damaging the vehicle’s body and engine because of excessive strain.

Most pull-behind towing falls under this category, including any towing that utilizes a pintle hook, tow ball, or similar configuration involving a shank and receiver hitch.

Question: What is unconventional towing?

Answer: Unconventional towing tethers the load to the vehicle’s chassis or body, commonly with a rope, cord, or cable.

Question: Is unconventional towing dangerous?

Answer: Yes, it can be if not done correctly. As mentioned before, one of the most significant dangers is towing an excessively heavy load, such as a small automobile pulling a half-ton truck.

The tow vehicle must be of ample size and have sufficient towing capacity to withstand damage. This information can be obtained online or from the automobile dealership (Ask your Taylor & Sons Chevrolet sales representative for the towing capacity of our vehicles).

Another danger is related to the driver of both vehicles. Abrupt stopping by the tow vehicle can result in not only damage to both vehicles because of the collision, but also to any drivers involved in either vehicle. It is advised that any unconventional towing be done on secondary roads, not Interstate highways.

Question: What is the most common type of tow hitch?

Answer: Bumper pull, also known as drag or tagalong trailer, is the most common type of tow hitch. This method is where the trailer’s tongue fits over a ball hitch that juts out from the vehicle’s frame at the rear.

Question: Are weight-distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups and larger classified as conventional or unconventional towing?

Answer: Weight distributing hitches for three-quarter-ton pickups are classified as conventional towing.

As can be seen, there is a vast difference between the two types of towing. At Taylor & Sons Chevrolet, we’ll be happy to advise you on your vehicles towing capacity and help you get it ready for towing. Contact us today for any type of assistance you need.

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